needle valve spring? 1980 gs550e

[schweighart2]

rebuilt my mik carbs for my 1980 gs550e. lost a spring that attaches to the needle valve assembly. cant find a new or used one. thought i could do without it. ran the bike for about 15 mins. seems to run fine. BUT, gas started to flow out of the intake sock ( airfilter ) on that same carb( #4). the bike was off and sitting in the driveway for about 5 min. before i noticed. does anyone know if this is related, or maybe i didnt clean them very well? the new valve assembly that im waiting for does not have the spring. i guess they dont make them anymore? tells me it is unessasary to have the spring. any thoughts?

[chef1366]

Needle valve assembly? The spring on top of the jet needle or the idle mixture screw?
I have both if you need them.

[SqDancerLynn1]

The little spring that clips to the needle is not mandatory. The carb should work without it. If it is overflowing when Off you need to check the petcock and the float valve. Did you replace the O rings

[chef1366]

The little spring that clips to the needle is not mandatory. The carb should work without it. If it is overflowing when Off you need to check the petcock and the float valve. Did you replace the O rings

I have lots of those too but Lynn's right, you don't need them.

[schweighart2]

thank you for the help. if i need those items i will be in touch. it is the jet needle. just glad to have found someone who understands what im asking for. this site has been fantastic. again thanks.